Anthony William "Tony" Patti

1943 - 2024

Preston - Anthony "Tony" William Patti, 81, of Preston, entered eternal life June 17, 2024, while surrounded by his family. He was born June 8, 1943, in New London, the son of the late Joseph and Susanne (Lentine) Patti. Tony graduated from New London High School in 1961.

Tony worked at Electric Boat as a designer/draftsman for 25 years, retiring in 2004, but his real passion began at eight years old sitting on an overturned bucket in his father's pigeon loft. For 73 years, Tony successfully raised, bred, and showed pigeons. His craft lead to countless victories, great respect for his knowledge within the pigeon breeding world, and National Hall of Fame status. Fellow breeder Dennis Manning wrote, "The Patti birds didn't change the standard, what they did was make the expectations in the standard real." In addition to his zest for birds, Tony loved being in the kitchen. As a result, and with an entrepreneurial spirit, he opened Tony's Ledyard Pizza from 1976 to 1984. Tony also owned other successful businesses during his lifetime. He was a loving husband and father, who sought every opportunity to teach those around him. His sense of humor, charisma and ingenuity resulted in many authentic friendships spanning well over 50 years.

In John 3:3, Jesus answered and said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." The best and most important decision Tony made in his lifetime was to accept Jesus Christ as his Savior assuring him, and all who believe, salvation in heaven for all of eternity. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, it is a gift of God not of works lest any man should boast."

He married the former Sandra Ibbison-Hicks Feb. 14, 2001; Mrs. Patti survives him. Besides his beloved wife Sandra, he is survived by four children: Marie Patti Miniard of Alabama, Susanne (Patti) Dugas of Lousianna, Joseph Patti of Washington, and Angelica (Patti) Johnson of Waterford; as well as six grandchildren: Corin, Gabrielle, Reece, Lily, Lucy and Lana; and his dancing dog Bella.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 29, followed by an Italian dinner potluck at the North Stonington Bible Church, 100 Jeremy Hill Road, North Stonington. Interment in St. Mary Cemetery will be private for the family.